MUR visits Macau Institution of People’s Alliance (API)

Macau Urban Renewal Limited (MUR) visited the Macau Institution of People’s Alliance (API) and was warmly welcomed by the association’s chairperson Si Ka Lon. MUR representatives presented the plan and progress of the company’s three projects, and both sides had an in-depth discussion on urban renewal.

At present, MUR is conducting a research study on Iao Hon Estate, Lot P in Areia Preta for temporary housing and home swap units, as well as Macau New Neighbourhood (MNN) in Hengqin.

MUR Chairperson of the Board of Directors Peter Lam Kam Seng said that urban renewal works on Iao Hon Estate is the first project MUR is tasked with. The company will conduct face-to-face household interviews, use scientific methods to gauge residents’ views on redevelopment, and continue to meet with the estate’s property owners in order to go over the details on redevelopment with them directly.

As an association rooted in the Macau community, API has a close connection with local residents, which can help coordinate with revitalisation works. With efforts from all sectors, MUR hopes that old district revitalisation works can run smoothly.

Meanwhile, MUR is speeding up the design of the layout plan of Lot P in Areia Preta for temporary housing and home swap units, and expects construction of the project to begin shortly in order to provide temporary accommodation for residents affected by revitalisation projects.

Si said that there are many ageing buildings in Macau’s old districts, and the issue on the state of these buildings is a concern, adding that he was happy to see research study and planning being carried out on redevelopment Iao Hon Estate.

Si pointed out the commercial usage of several residential units, payment of construction costs and planning of neighbourhood auxiliary facilities are some of the issues need addressing, noting that sorting out these issues would not be an easy task.

Si suggested that a series of laws and regulations has to be put into effect at the same time in order for the urban renewal process to be carried out smoothly.